MC931407 – (Updated) Microsoft Copilot: New user control for web searches

Product:

Copilot, Microsoft 365 admin center, Microsoft 365 Apps, Microsoft 365 Copilot, Microsoft 365 suite, Microsoft Search

Platform:

Online, Web, World tenant

Status:

Scheduled

Change type:

Admin impact, New feature, Updated message, User impact

Links:

MC910984

Details:

Summary:
Microsoft Copilot introduces a user control for web searches. Rollout starts late February 2025, completing by late February. Users can enable/disable web searches in the overflow menu. Admin-disabled searches remain off post-rollout. No admin action needed; organizations should review configurations and inform users.

Details:
Updated February 13, 2025: We have updated the rollout timeline below. Thank you for your patience.
Coming soon: A control that allows users to control if web search queries are sent to Microsoft Bing when using Microsoft Copilot.
[When this will happen:]
General Availability (Worldwide): We will begin rolling out late February 2025 (previously early February) and expect to complete by late March 2025 (previously late February).

Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:

Created:
2024-11-12

updated:
2025-02-14

Task Type

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Docu to Check

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MS How does it affect me

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MS Preperations

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MS Urgency

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Pictures

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summary for non-techies**

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Direct effects for Operations**

User Control for Web Searches
Users may experience confusion or frustration if they are not informed about the new control for enabling/disabling web searches, leading to potential dissatisfaction with Copilot responses.
   - roles: End Users, IT Support Staff
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/copilot/microsoft-365/manage-public-web-access#controls-available-to-manage-web-search

Admin Configuration Awareness
Admins may face increased support requests from users who are unaware of the new web search control, impacting their ability to manage other IT tasks effectively.
   - roles: IT Administrators, Help Desk Staff
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/copilot/microsoft-365/manage-public-web-access#controls-available-to-manage-web-search

Impact on Copilot Response Quality
If users disable web search without understanding the implications, they may receive outdated or less relevant responses from Copilot, affecting their productivity.
   - roles: End Users, Business Analysts
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/copilot/microsoft-365/manage-public-web-access#controls-available-to-manage-web-search

Configutation Options**

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Opportunities**

User Control for Web Searches
Empowering users with the ability to enable or disable web searches in Microsoft Copilot can enhance user autonomy and satisfaction. This control allows users to tailor their experience based on their privacy preferences and work requirements, leading to improved productivity and user experience.
   - next-steps: Communicate the new feature to all users and provide guidance on how to enable or disable web searches. Collect feedback to understand user preferences and make adjustments as necessary.
   - roles: End Users, IT Support, Product Managers
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/copilot/microsoft-365/manage-public-web-access#controls-available-to-manage-web-search

Improved Copilot Responses via Web Search
By allowing web searches, Copilot can provide more accurate and up-to-date information, enhancing the quality of responses. This can lead to better decision-making and efficiency in tasks that require the latest data.
   - next-steps: Evaluate the current usage of Copilot among teams and identify key areas where real-time information is critical. Train users on how to effectively use the web search feature to maximize its benefits.
   - roles: Knowledge Workers, Team Leaders, Project Managers
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/copilot/microsoft-365/manage-public-web-access#controls-available-to-manage-web-search

Policy Management for Web Searches
The introduction of the 'Allow web search in Copilot' policy provides organizations with the ability to manage web search capabilities at a granular level, ensuring compliance with data privacy standards and organizational policies.
   - next-steps: Review and update organizational policies regarding web searches in Copilot. Conduct training sessions for administrators on how to configure these settings effectively.
   - roles: IT Administrators, Compliance Officers, Security Officers
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/microsoft-365-apps/privacy/optional-connected-experiences, https://learn.microsoft.com/copilot/microsoft-365/manage-public-web-access#controls-available-to-manage-web-search

Potentional Risks**

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IT Security**

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explanation for non-techies**

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